Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty

Posted on Oct 20, 2010 in

Eyelid Surgery Blepharoplasty

Also known as blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, and gives a rejuvenated appearance to the surrounding area of your eyes, making you look more rested and alert.

Specifically, eyelid surgery can treat:

Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision

Excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the upper eyelids

Bags under the eyes

Droopiness of the lower eyelids, showing white below the iris (colored portion of the eye)

Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid

Good candidates for eyelid surgery:

Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing

Non-smokers

Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for blepharoplasty

Individuals without serious eye conditions

You must tell your doctor if you have any of these medical conditions: eye disease such as glaucoma, dry eye or a detached retina; thyroid disorders such as Graves’ disease and under – or overactive thyroid;

cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or other circulatory disorders or diabetes

During your surgery:

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The incision lines for eyelid surgery are designed for scars to be well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region. Conditions of the lower eyelid may be corrected with an incision just below the lower lash line. Through this incision, excess skin in the lower eyelids is removed. Eyelid incisions typically are closed with: removable or absorbable sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape. Your surgeon may use a laser chemical peel to erase dark discoloration of the lower eyelids. The results of eyelid surgery will appear gradually as swelling and bruising subside to reveal a smooth, better-defined eyelid and surrounding region, and an alert and rejuvenated appearance.

Your final results will appear within several weeks, but it may take up to a year for incision lines to fully refine. While eyelid surgery can be expected to correct certain conditions permanently, you will continue to age naturally. Life-long sun protection will help to maintain your results.